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Avoiding a Fall

Did you know that one in three older Americans falls every year? Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for people aged 65+.

Falls can result in hip fractures, broken bones, and head injuries and significant loss of independence. Falls often trigger the onset of a series of growing needs. For those over age 75, fallers are more than four times more likely to be admitted to a skilled nursing facility. (Donald and Bullpitt, 1999)

And falls, even without a major injury, can cause an older adult to become fearful or depressed, making it difficult for them to stay active.

The good news about falls is that most of them can be prevented. The key is to know where to look. Here are some steps developed by the National Council on Aging (NCOA) to help your older loved one reduce their risk of a fall:

1. Enlist their support in taking simple steps to stay safe. For example:

Ask your older loved one if they’re concerned about falling

Many older adults recognize that falling is a risk, but they believe it won’t happen to them or they won’t get hurt—even if they’ve already fallen in the past

A good place to start is by sharing NCOA’s Debunking the Myths of Older Adult Falls. If they’re concerned about falling, dizziness, or balance, suggest that they discuss it with their health care provider who can assess their risk and suggest programs or services that could help

2. Discuss their current health conditions:

Find out if your older loved one is experiencing any problems with managing their own health

Ask whether they are having trouble remembering to take their medications—or are they experiencing side effects?

Ask if it is getting more difficult for them to do things they used to do easily?

Also make sure they’re taking advantage of all the preventive benefits now offered under Medicare, such as the Annual Wellness visit. Encourage them to speak openly with their health care provider about all of their concerns

3. Ask about their last eye checkup:

If your older loved one wears glasses or contact lenses, make sure they have a current prescription and they’re using the glasses/contacts as advised by their eye doctor

Remember that using tint-changing lenses can be hazardous when going from bright sun into darkened buildings and homes. A simple strategy is to change glasses upon entry or stop until their lenses adjust

Bifocals also can be problematic on stairs, so it’s important to be cautious. For those already struggling with low vision, consult with a low-vision specialist for ways to make the most of their eyesight

4. Notice if they’re holding onto walls, furniture, or someone else when walking or if they appear to have difficulty walking or arising from a chair, because:

These are all signs that it might be time to see a physical therapist

A trained physical therapist can help your older loved one improve their balance, strength, and gait through exercise

They might also suggest a cane or walker—and provide guidance on how to use these aids. Make sure to follow their advice.

Poorly fit aids actually can increase the risk of falling

5. Talk about their medications:

If your older loved one is having a hard time keeping track of medicines or is experiencing side effects, encourage them to discuss their concerns with their doctor and pharmacist

Suggest that they have their medications reviewed each time they get a new prescription

Some find it useful to use a spreadsheet to keep track of medications and schedules. Adding a timed medication dispenser that can be refilled each month by a family member can also promote peace of mind and ensure adherence to the prescribed regime

Beware of non-prescription medications that contain sleep aids—including painkillers with “PM” in their names. These can lead to balance issues and dizziness. If your older loved one is having sleeping problems, encourage them to talk to their doctor or pharmacist about safer alternatives.

6. Do a walk-through safety assessment of their home.

There are many simple and inexpensive ways to make a home safer. For professional assistance, consult an Occupational Therapist. Here are some examples:

Lighting: Increase lighting throughout the house, especially at the top and bottom of stairs. Ensure that lighting is readily available when getting up in the middle of the night

Stairs: Make sure there are two secure rails on all stairs

Bathrooms: Install grab bars in the tub/shower and near the toilet. Make sure they’re installed where your older loved one would actually use them. For even greater safety, consider using a shower chair and hand-held shower

For more ideas on how to make the home safer, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) offers a home assessment checklist in multiple languages. Click the link or go to this web address:

Bright Idea

NCOA, the Administration on Aging, and the CDC also promote a variety of community-based programs, like A Matter of Balance, Stepping On, and Tai Chi, that can help older adults learn how to reduce their risk of falling. Contact your Area Agency on Aging to find out what’s available in your area.

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